The Teamster contract covers about 5,500 aircraft mechanics and related employees throughout the United States.

"This marks a historic day for Teamster United mechanics," said Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa. "They stood united for a better future and for big improvements at United. They should feel proud of what they've accomplished."

"My congratulations go out to the negotiating committee for their dedication and perseverance in negotiating a strong Teamster contract. These hardworking Teamster mechanics and related workers deserve all the improvements negotiated in this agreement," said Teamsters Airline Division Director Capt. David Bourne.

Passage of the agreement is a major step toward achieving the ultimate goal of a single combined contract for the 9,000 Teamster mechanics at a merged United Airlines and Continental Airlines.

"Passage of this agreement was a real breakthrough and a major step toward achieving the ultimate goal of a single combined contract for the 9,000 mechanics at the new airline," said Roger Apana, a mechanic from Honolulu and a member of the negotiating committee. "It feels good that we were able to achieve a $11,500 signing bonus along with restoring many of the items that were conceded in bankruptcy and securing the best job protections we've had in our 70-year history."

Founded in 1903, the Teamsters Union represents more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. For more information, please visit www.Teamster.org and follow us on Twitter @TeamsterPower.